International Blues Music Day term was first time coined by the Famous Musician Johny Child. On August 17, 2011 an online petition was launched advocating for the establishment of an International Blues Music Day.
Each year on the first Saturday of August, this internationally practiced art form is recognized for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity, eradicating discrimination, promoting freedom of expression, fostering gender equality, and reinforcing the role of youth for social. International Blues Music Day brings together communities, schools, artists, and historians, academics, and blues enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about blues and its roots, future and impact; raise awareness of the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding; and reinforce international cooperation and communication.
Following the music culture of hills, musicians from Darjeeling celebrated International Blues Day at Lion’s Gate, Darjeeling as per the tradition celebrated this day on the second Saturday of August’14 (2nd Aug’14). Music enthusiasts of all ages came together to remind Darjeeling of its glorious, yet almost fading music culture.
Musicians from amazingly talented Darjeeling based bands – Forbidden Fruit, Magnum Opus, US Band, Puran Gongba, Mahatmas, Mantra, Destiny, Reincarnation, and renowned blues guitarist Binay Rai, Aswath Rumba and all the groovy boys and girls were present and jammed to some of the best blues tunes. The gathering was a realization to witness the contagious energy of music and musicians who still finds an opportunity to share this passion for music.
Music is often said to be the soul of life that creates an enchanting effect in our hearts. Music connects heart and souls. So a day dedicated to celebrate the blues music around the world. A day which brings all the music lovers together.